Over our office lunch recently I visited with a fellow employee named Cindy and learned that her father taught music at Wheaton College and also coordinated the Artist Series. He had the privilege of meeting celebrated musicians who were to perform at the College. George Szell, legendary music director of the Cleveland Orchestra, was one of them when Cindy was in her early teen years. Cindy's father introduced her to Szell and pointed out that she played the viola. Ever the taskmaster, the visiting maestro put his fingers under her chin and lifted to see the left side of her jaw. "It doesn't look like she practices much," Szell said, making a serious point in a playful manner. As violinists and viola players know, the more you practice, the more the skin under the jaw where the violin is held is darkened. Disciplined, hard work leaves its mark.

I pray that in 2011 you bear the marks of one who puts in disciplined, hard work both on your sermon preparation and in the training required to become a better preacher. Our mission at PreachingToday.com is to be a valuable partner in your preaching excellence.

Preaching Christ,

Brian Larson
Editor, PreachingToday.com
blarson@christianitytoday.com

Craig Brian Larson is the pastor of Lake Shore Church in Chicago and author and editor of numerous books, including The Art and Craft of Biblical Preaching (Zondervan). He blogs on Knowing God and His Ways at craigbrianlarson.com.